Associate Environmental Scientist

About the role

The Earth & Environment Team at WSP USA is seeking an Associate Environmental Scientist to join our Houston, TX office. This role involves technical assistance for the collection, identification, and compilation of observational and spatial data concerning various biological, physical, and earth sciences. The position also includes supporting technical staff and project managers with environmental work and permitting projects.

Responsibilities

• Assist with collecting, identifying, and compiling observational, spatial, and environmental data from samples of air, soil, water, sludge, and other matrices for projects, investigations, and surveys.
• Maintain quality control standards and procedures for accurate and precise measurements and statistical analysis of environmental data.
• Perform basic professional environmental science work relating to ecological systems, air, and water resources, verifying the characteristics of a site and providing technical assistance on various environmental issues.
• Contribute to the preparation of technical reports summarizing research with findings and conclusions, generating complete, accurate, and concise documentation using electronic systems, field/work site notes, and software.
• Comply with safety guidelines and site-specific procedures which include but are not limited to, the maintenance of sample collection, laboratory documentation, written procedures, and logbooks.
• Aid in the maintenance and calibration of equipment and tools, troubleshooting or reporting on malfunctions, and performing inventory control activities.
• Assist with environmental risk identification and assessment, offering input and analysis with low-level threat mitigation activities and remediation projects to minimize impacts to the health of the environment and the population.
• Work with cross-functional teams in executing project work.
• Prepare work plans and coordinate field work permitting.
• Complete training on assigned tasks.
• Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources, and conduct, and adhere to WSP’s Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Science, Ecology, Natural Resource Management, or a related life sciences field.
• 1 to 3 years of experience working as an environmental scientist and completing environmental surveys, fieldwork, habitat and impact assessments, and/or construction monitoring.
• Prior experience with GIS software and Trimble GPS units and ability to use technology for data collection.
• Analytical skills, and experience with research techniques, local/regional ecology and habitats, and applicable species/discipline required.
• Highly familiar with relevant environmental laws, regulations, compliance practices, and record-keeping requirements.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills when interacting with others, expressing ideas effectively and professionally to a scientific and non-scientific audience.
• Capable self-leadership with attention to detail, multi-tasking, and prioritization of responsibilities in a dynamic work environment.
• Basic proficiency with business writing, office automation and communication software, technology, and tools.
• Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP’s health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as part of a team to meet business objectives.
• Occasional travel may be required depending on project-specific requirements.

Qualifications

• Required: Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Science, Ecology, Natural Resource Management, or a related life sciences field.
• Required: 1 to 3 years of experience working as an environmental scientist and completing environmental surveys, fieldwork, habitat and impact assessments, and/or construction monitoring.
• Preferred: Member of and/or actively participate in local professional practice organizations.

Skills

• Experience with GIS software and Trimble GPS units.
• Research techniques, local/regional ecology and habitats, and applicable species/discipline.
• Environmental laws, regulations, compliance practices, and record-keeping requirements.
• Interpersonal and communication skills.
• Basic proficiency with business writing, office automation and communication software, technology, and tools.
• Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP’s health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.

Benefits

WSP USA offers a comprehensive suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, and retirement savings programs. Employees are also afforded a flexible and agile workplace model designed to meet the unique needs of our diverse workforce. WSP USA is committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment where employees can thrive and grow.

Pay

Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience.

Schedule

Typical full-time schedule, with occasional travel as needed.

Contact

To apply, please visit our careers page at www.wsp.com/careers. No phone calls please.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, age, gender, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or veteran status.